Kate Middleton makes her family part of The Firm by inviting them to royal events
March of the Middletons! Kate makes her family part of The Firm by inviting them to the Royal Variety Performance and her carol service weeks apart – and even James’s glamorous new wife Alizée is on the guest list
Kate invited parents Carole and Michael, sister Pippa, brother James, and his wife Alizée to her carol service Marks the Middletons’ second royal event in less than a month, after the Royal Variety Performance Could be a sign that Kate wants her close-knit family to be more involved in her life as a royal Typically chic, Alizée wore a red and white houndstooth £155 blazer and matching trousers from Sézane
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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were joined by senior members of the Royal Family for Kate’s Christmas carol service at Westminster last night.
But notably, Kate’s family also showed out in force, marking their second appearance at a high-profile royal event in less than a month, following the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall.
Kate, 39, invited her parents Carole and Michael, sister Pippa, 38, brother James, 34, and his fashionable French wife Alizée Thevenet to the important event, alongside the Countess of Wessex and William’s cousins Zara Tindall, Princess Eugenie and Princess Eugenie.
The Middletons are extremely tight-knit, with James and Alizée even spending lockdown at his parents’ Berkshire home, and have remained close even as Kate has ascended the ranks of the royal family.
Carole and Michael play an important role in the lives of their grandchildren, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, and remain a pillar of stability for William, who they have known since his university days. Kate and William also showed their support for James’s recent marriage to Alizée, by making the journey to her home country of France for the low-key nuptials.
The Middletons’ attendance at two major royal events in quick succession could hint at Kate’s intention to bring her family even more into the royal fold as she and William continue to take on a more senior role within The Firm.
Family out in force: Carole and Michael Middleton were joined by daughter Pippa, son James and his fashionable French wife Alizée Thevenet as they showed their support for Kate at the Westminster Abbey carol service, which will be broadcast on ITV on Christmas Eve. The Middletons smiled at Kate (right) as she chatted to guests ahead of the service last night
Très chic! Alizée, a former finance worker who married James this year, was typically fashionable in a red and white houndstooth, double breasted £155 blazer and matching trousers from Sézane paired with a white ruffled collar blouse
In the fold: The Middletons’ attendance at two major royal events in quick succession could hint at Kate’s intention to bring her family even more into the royal fold as she and William continue to take on a more senior role within The Firm
No.1 girl: The Middletons were on hand to support the Duchess of Cambridge, who looked radiant at the event last night
Twice in two months: The Westminster Abbey carol service marks the Middletons’ second appearance at a high-profile royal event in less than a month, following the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall (pictured, in a box together)
The Middletons, who have previously been invited to join the royals at church in Sandringham, Norfolk, will never take on official royal duties or roles, but might well provide valuable emotional support for their daughter and son-in-law, as they did last night.
The proud parents looked on and smiled as the Duchess chatted to guests ahead of the service, and beamed as they left the cathedral together.
Alizée, a former finance worker, was typically fashionable in a red and white houndstooth, double breasted £155 blazer and matching trousers from Sézane paired with a stylish white ruffled collar blouse.
She paired the look with a casual pair of brown Chelsea boots and kept the look simple by going make-up free and wearing her long blonde tresses loose around her shoulders.
Kate’s sister Pippa, 38, looked polished in a £645 emerald green Finchley wool coat which she paired with thick black tights and matching black clutch bag while wearing her brown hair in a chic half-up do.
Carole, 66, opted for a sophisticated dark purple coat paired with black boots, thick tights and a pair of dainty teardrop earrings.
Pippa Matthews and parents Carole and Michael Middleton looked in great spirits as they left the Together at Christmas Community Carol Service this afternoon
The Middleton family showed their support for the Duchess of Cambridge this afternoon as they arrived to watch her host a Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey
Carole, 66, opted for a sophisticated dark purple coat paired with black boots, thick tights and a pair of dainty teardrop earrings for the Together at Christmas carol service this evening
Proud parents! Carole and Michael Middleton appeared in high spirits after watching their daughter the Duchess of Cambridge host the Together at Christmas community carol service
Newlywed Alizée was typically fashionable in a red and white houndstooth, double breasted £155 blazer and matching trousers from Sézane paired with a stylish white ruffled collar blouse
The rare joint outing comes just weeks after the family got together to watch the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall
Michael, 72, and son James, 34, looked typically dapper for the occasion, both wearing matching black tuxedos with bow ties.
Princess Eugenie cut a chic figure in a £1335 emerald green cape coat by Chloe, which she paired with a black ensemble and knee-high black leather boots.
Meanwhile Beatrice stepped out in the same £655 Finchley wool coat as Pippa however chose the garment in a chic camel shade.
Sophie opted for a £561 Victoria Beckham coat and could be seen beaming as she arrived at the event this afternoon, clutching a smart purple bag as she strode into Westminster Abbey.
The Countess of Wessex swept her blonde hair into a neat updo, opting for a hint of blush across her cheeks and a sweep of black eyeliner.
Mother-of-three Kate debuted a new red coat dress for the outing, which featured a large bow detailing across the bodice, as she stepped out with Prince William , 39.
The coat dress, thought to be worth around £3,000, is a new ensemble for the Duchess, who previously wore a black version of the coat to attend Prince Philip ‘s funeral in April.
Festive fun! The Middleton family appeared in high spirits as they watched the Duchess of Cambridge host the carol service
Pippa stepped out in a £645 emerald green Finchley wool coat which she paired with thick black tights and teamed her look with a festive pair of green teardrop earrings
Pippa opted for a natural make-up look with subtle black eyeliner, a touch of highlighter and natural bronze and blush
Family affair! Carole, Michael and Pippa Middleton were all smiles as they attended the Christmas carol service today
Newlywed Alizée was typically fashionable in a red and white houndstooth, double breasted blazer and matching trousers paired with a stylish white ruffled collar blouse
Kate’s sister Pippa, 38, looked polished in an emerald green coat dress which she paired with thick black tights and matching black clutch bag while wearing her brown hair in a chic half-up do
Carole, 66, opted for a sophisticated dark purple coat paired with black boots, thick tights and a pair of dainty teardrop earrings
The Middleton family had front row seats to the carol service at Westminster Abbey this afternoon
Pippa was all smiles after leaving the festive carol service wearing a stylish a £645 emerald green Finchley wool coat
Kate’s younger sister Pippa cut an elegant figure on the outing, donning a smart emerald tailored coat for the evening
Meanwhile the royal added a touch of glamour to her outfit with the Queen Mother’s sapphire and diamond fringe earrings, and recycled her £640 red suede bag by Miu Miu for the occasion, first worn in September 2016.
Once inside, the Duke and Duchess could be seen wearing black face coverings, in accordance with guidance from the abbey. The website details how attendees are ‘encouraged when inside the Abbey and St Margaret’s Church’ to wear masks while social distancing is ‘encouraged in areas which are small and confined.’
Hosted and spearheaded by The Duchess, and supported by The Royal Foundation, the event will pay tribute to the incredible work of individuals and organisations across the UK who have supported their communities through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Princess Eugenie cut a chic figure in a smart emerald green cape coat, which she paired with a black ensemble and knee-high black leather boots
Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi (right) and Zara and Mike Tindall (left) were also in attendance at the event this evening in London
The group were also joined by the Countess of Wessex, 55, at the service, who opted for a smart white pair of trousers with a festive green blouse and maroon jacket
The Duchess of Cambridge was festive in a scarlet Catherine Walker coat as she arrived to host a Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey this afternoon
Giving a masterclass in festive glamour, Kate wore her bouncy brunette locks down across her shoulders at the carol service today
Giving a masterclass in festive glamour, Kate wore her bouncy brunette locks down across her shoulders (pictured)
Filmed for broadcast, the service will provide a moment for the nation to come together and reflect, to think not only of the extraordinary challenges that we have faced, but also to celebrate the acts of kindness that we have witnessed across our nation, the communities pulling together to protect and care for those in need, and those who have stepped up to help others.
It is set to combine traditional elements with a modern and inclusive feel to encompass people of all faiths and none, the service will feature carols sung by the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir alongside musical performances by Leona Lewis and Ellie Goulding.
It will also incorporate a performance of To The Day, a poignant composition created for the service by poet and writer Lemn Sissay, and readings delivered by speakers including The Duke of Cambridge, British Paralympian and junior doctor Kim Daybell and Kate Garraway.
The Duchess of Cambridge wore a black face covering as she chatted with participants of the community carol service this afternoon
Kate and William chatted with seven-year-old Tony Hudgell at the community carol service at Westminster Abbey this afternoon
Seven-year-old Tony, who had both legs amputated as a result of neglect by his birth parents, received a personal invitation to Westminster Abbey from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Kate wrote to Tony, pictured at the carol service today, back in August 2020in support for his charity walk in aid of the Evelina Children’s Hospital, where he had been treated as a baby
The Duke and Duchess could be seen speaking to one attendee who was using a wheelchair at the carol service
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were seen chatting with a participant of the community carol service ahead of the Together At Christmas celebration this afternoon
Beneath her £3,000 Catherine Walker coat, the Duchess wore a matching smart scarlet midi dress with co-ordinating accessories
Catching up with cousins! Prince William and Kate were joined by Mike and Zara, as well as Princess Eugenie, at the event in London earlier today
Among the children the Duchess met today was Mila, of Falkirk, whose photograph caught her eye after it was submitted into Kate’s Hold Still competition
Beatrice was joined by her husband Edoardo at the service in London this evening, where they could be seen chatting with attendees
Kate Middleton is pictured smiling after the Together at Christmas community carol service at Westminster Abbey
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are pictured leaving the carol service this afternoon at Westminster Abbey
Kate Middleton showed off her killer red heels as she left the Together At Christmas community carol service at Westminster Abbey
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge removed their masks as they left following the Together At Christmas community carol service
The Christmas Eve broadcast will feature additional content including an introduction from The Duchess of Cambridge, videos highlighting the efforts of inspirational organisations, and a special performance by Tom Walker of his new Christmas single For Those Who Can’t Be Here.
Unsung heroes from across the length and breadth of the nation have been invited to attend the service in recognition of their tireless efforts and selfless acts of kindness despite incredibly difficult circumstances.
Nominations have been drawn from Lieutenancies across the UK, alongside community networks, charitable organisations and patronages of Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, and The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Individuals who The Duke and Duchess have met and spent time with during their recent engagements and project work will also be present, alongside those working in some of the key areas that Their Royal Highnesses and The Royal Foundation continue to focus on.
Looking radiant in red! The Duchess looked stunning in the Catherine Walker coat, estimated to be worth around £3,000, which she paired with matching accessories
Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge arrive for the ‘Together at Christmas’ community carol service
Arriving at the event today, Kate donned a pair of earrings featuring large sapphires surrounded by diamonds, from which diamond fringes are suspended, in an Art Deco design (pictured left and right)
The congregation will also include armed forces personnel who were involved in Operation Pitting, young carers, faith leaders, and guests who may be more vulnerable or isolated within our society.
Earlier today, the Duchess of Cambridge shared a snap from inside the abbey as rehearsals got underway.
She posted: ‘Rehearsals ahead of tonight’s #TogetherAtChristmas carol service.
‘We will be reflecting on the extraordinary challenges we have faced in recent times and celebrating the acts of kindness that we have witnessed across the nation as communities pulled together to help each other.’
The Christmas special marks a massive coup for ITV, which usually loses out on royal content to the BBC.
An industry insider said earlier this month: ‘It was all arranged to be on BBC1 but it was switched in the last few days because of the terrible row over the documentary.
The Duchess carefully removed her brunette locks from her earrings as she arrived at the event earlier this evening in London
Having a great hair day! The Duchess of Cambridge could be seen swinging her brunette locks out from her coat as she arrived at the event today
The couple appeared in high spirits as they arrived for the event in London this afternoon alongside the Duchess’ family (pictured)
The mother-of-three was in high spirits at the event earlier this afternoon, beaming as she arrived at Westminster Abbey for the service
Meanwhile the royal added a touch of glamour to her outfit with a pair of glittering earrings from the Queen Mother’s jewellery box (pictured)
Kate Middleton, 39, cut an elegant figure as she stepped out for the Together At Christmas event in London today, which celebrates the ‘incredible work’ of pandemic heroes including charity workers, teachers and volunteers
Prince William cut a handsom figure in a smart suit as he chatted with Kate Middleton ahead of the festive carol service
‘And things are likely to get a lot worse between the Royal Family and the BBC before they get better as the second part of the documentary threatens to go further.’
The second part of the documentary saw Meghan Markle’s lawyer issue a technical and bizarre denial the Duchess had ever bullied staff – before insisting ‘but she wouldn’t want to negate anyone’s personal experiences.’
The programme also said people connected to both the Cambridges and Sussexes briefed about the other.
Kensington Palace declined to comment.
Kate will no doubt be hoping to brush aside any rumblings over the documentary ahead of the carol service.
Posting about the carol service on Instagram, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge wrote: ‘This Christmas we are celebrating the incredible work of individuals and organisations across the nation who go above and beyond to support their communities.
Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway chatted with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the Christmas event this afternoon
Kate arrived to the Together At Christmas concert at Westminster Abbey where she chatted with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Kate is pictured chatting with singers Tom Walker, Ellie Goulding and Leona Lewis who will give musical performances at the carol service
Princess Beatrice looked stunning in a camel wool coat as she joined members of the Royal Family at Westminster Abbey
Festive fun! After the carol service the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were seen petting a reindeer
Kate and Prince William appeared utterly charmed by the reindeer, who were waiting outside the abbey after the carol service today
A festive friend! As the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge left at the event, they were greeted by two reindeers (pictured)
Feeling brave! Princess Anne’s son-in-law Mike Tindall (left) and Princess Eugenie (right) could be seen stroking one of the reindeer outside the abbey this evening
The royal couple appeared charmed by a choir of school children after the service in London this evening